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Joel's hand rests on your thigh amidst the ongoing dinner conversation. As you sip your wine, you catch his glance in your peripheral vision. A subtle tug at the corner of your mouth is met with the gentle caress of his thumb against your skin. Beneath the table, a secret shared only between you two. Affection remains secret for him, as his tough exterior doesn't easily blend with his softer side around others, except for you.
But that's okay. You like the parts of him that belong exclusively to you.
As goodbyes are exchanged, and others disappear into the night, the front door shuts with a resounding thud. Joel turns to face you, subtly tilting his head —a silent invitation for you to come here You approach him slowly, but he seizes your waist, pulling you into him. He notices the slight stumble, aware that the wine has taken its effect.
With just one kiss, he conveys the anticipation that has lingered throughout the night. His lips, soft; his hands, rough —a perfect fusion that adds to the intoxication. His kiss reflects a longing he's held all evening. The wine and his touch render your limbs like jelly, and in a playful charade, you pretend your legs give out. Laughter fills the air as he kisses your neck before effortlessly lifting you into his arms.
"Come on, baby,"
"So handsome," you slur, reaching to touch his face.
A low chuckle rumbles in his throat, a clear disagreement softened by amusement at your drunken charm. Gently, he lays you down on the bed and begins to remove your shoes. Your eyes glow with glee as you watch him, a giggle escaping your lips.
"You love me," you say.
Not a question but a statement. Joel slides his hand under your neck, lifting you towards him on the edge of the bed. His eyes are soft when they look at you, the scowl that lingered on his face eventually melted away as your relationship grew into something more. His calloused fingers trace your spine, unzipping your dress. The cool breeze from the open window sends goosebumps across your skin.
Joel lets your words hang in the air, responding with a soft kiss on your shoulder as he slips the dress's straps off. Your smile widens, recognizing his unspoken affirmation to your statement.
You allow him to undress you, surrendering to his care. With a swift motion, the dress is over your head, draped on a nearby chair. He guides you back onto the pillow, gently arranging your hair. His silence is familiar and comforting, his touch speaking volumes.
He wraps blankets around you, tucking them in subtly. Watching him, the back of your hand covers a smile. When he finally meets your eyes again, they're filled with love and contentment, making it clear that taking care of you is his priority.
"Join me?" you ask, aware he's headed back to the kitchen. "Forget the mess, we can clean it up tomorrow. Lay with me." Despite any protest, he gives in as you take his hand.
Shoes off, shirt pulled away, the lamp clicks off, shrouding the room in darkness. He's under the covers by your side before the next cool breeze comes from the window. Strong arms envelop you, feeling like home. The room steadies, and you find grounding. No longer drunk on wine, just him.
His warm breath against your ear, as you close your eyes, whispers, "My girl."
